If the refugees arrive in the next six weeks, the plan is to use the CCIS reception house, but that can only accommodate 60 people.

The next best option, Birjandian says, is to use commercial accommodation, which the agency is discussing with city officials and major landlords.

The third and most difficult option would be private homes.

"We haven't done that in the past, so that will be a huge challenge for us."

Despite the logistics, Birjandian is hopeful the plan will work.

"We've done it on a smaller scale and it had worked. But there are major challenges, such as housing allowance."

Upcoming meeting

The Calgary Catholic Immigration Society is holding monthly information sessions to educate people who may want to privately sponsor a Syrian individual or family. (CBC News)

Currently, government housing subsidies are quite low. Refugees receive up to one year of government-subsidized living allowance.

A family of four, for example, gets $1,542 a month and a rent allowance of $695.

"If they provide enough market rate rent, I think we can do it."

So far, Birjandian says the provincial government has helped set up a task force to address the issues, involving five communities around the province — Calgary, Medicine Hat, Lethbridge, Red Deer and Edmonton.

A meeting has already been held and 73 organizations attended, says Birjandian.

There will also be a meeting on Nov. 19 at the Calgary library to outline the plan to various community organizations.

Meanwhile, CCIS is also conducting orientation and workshops for private groups interested in helping to sponsor Syrian individuals or families.